Trump administration urges states to prepare for independent disaster recovery

FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton has informed state officials that they should not rely on federal aid during major disasters. During a meeting in Little Rock, Arkansas, Hamilton advised states to maintain their own financial reserves and resources to begin immediate recovery efforts rather than waiting for federal disaster declarations.

This shift suggests a greater emphasis on state-level responsibility for managing the aftermath of hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. While the administration has not officially ended federal disaster assistance, Hamilton noted plans for a state-to-state disaster recovery support program, potentially launching within six months to facilitate mutual aid between states.

In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the administration’s stance. As California prepares for anticipated El Niño storms, Newsom argued that the federal government is retreating from its mission to protect citizens, prompting the state to increase its own preparations, including levee inspections and the staging of flood-fighting supplies.